Just as customers are getting used to the idea of olive oil in their coffee, Starbucks is raising the bar once again.
The chain has reportedly released a new espresso drink in China to celebrate the start of the Lunar New Year that also includes pork sauce and a garnish of pork breast meat.
The Abundant Year Savory Latte will cost the brave caffeine chasers who dare try it 68 yuan, just under $9.50 in U.S. currency. Starbucks, in a Chinese social media post, described the drink as having “unexpected savory and sweet flavors,” according to a report on CNN. It’s being sold at Starbucks Reserve stores in China.
“We become truly global by elevating the brand in locally relevant ways for our partners (employees) and customers in every market we operate,” the company said in a statement. “To celebrate the Lunar New Year, [we] have released limited time beverages that feature local flavor profiles and highlight traditional customs. The Abundant Year Savory Latte blends the flavor of Dongpo braised pork to create a salty and sweet taste that is a traditional celebration of Lunar New Year. This is one of the limited time offerings available through next Monday or while supplies last.”
The pork-infused drink was certainly the most head-turning limited-time option for the holiday, but not the only one. Starbucks is also offering the Red Date Rice Flavor Macchiato, the Fortune Almond Macchiato, and the Black Sesame Latte.
As for the pork option, it’s available only in 25 select locations around the country.
Braised pork is a big menu item in many restaurants during the Lunar New Year, as consuming meat is said to bring prosperity in the year to come. Dongu pork, made from braised pork belly, rock sugar, yellow wine, and soy sauce, is especially popular—and was the inspiration for the drink.
People, as you might expect, had thoughts on the matter, with one commenter on Starbucks’ post reportedly saying “My bottom line is that I can accept these two in my stomach together, but not in my mouth at the same time.”’
☕️ Braised-pork-flavored #coffee by @Starbucks , priced at 68 yuan ($9.45), would u like to have a try? Dubbed the “Abundant Year Savory Latte,” the coffee is debut to celebrate the #ChineseNewYear2024 with its “interesting” flavor. Some netizens describe the coffee tasted a bit… pic.twitter.com/XIsNF0uhst— ShanghaiEye🚀official (@ShanghaiEye) February 20, 2024
Starbucks has just under 800 locations in China and is continuing its expansion in that country. The company announced last November it plans to add just under 15,000 locations outside of the U.S. by 2030.
“Three out of every four new stores over the near term is expected to be opened outside of the U.S. as our store portfolio becomes increasingly global,” Michael Conway, president of Starbucks’ international and channel development divisions, said during a company presentation announcing the expansion.